Amazon Publishing nabs new short thriller from Rankin

Amazon Publishing has nabbed a standalone short thriller by Ian Rankin for its Amazon Original Stories imprint, which publishes single-sitting reads from bestselling authors, acclaimed storytellers and new voices.

Senior editor Victoria Haslam acquired world English rights to The Citadel from Jon Wood at RCW, and the book will be available on 1st November 2023 in e-book and audio formats. 

The Citadel tells the story of the suspicion that ensues when a nightwatchman is found slain in the entrance lobby of a new steel-and-glass residential tower in London. 

Amazon Original Stories are available to Kindle Unlimited subscribers and Prime members. Amazon said the imprint aims to offer the opportunity for authors to step outside of the formats or genres they’re known for and connect with new readers.

Rankin said: “I’m thrilled that The Citadel will be published by Amazon Original Stories, and hugely enjoyed the challenge of writing a story designed to be read in one sitting. It was a very creatively satisfying experience and I hope readers will enjoy the result.”

Haslam added: “The Citadel is filled with more twists than a high-rise stairwell. We’re delighted to have Ian join our growing list at Amazon Original Stories, and to offer readers a new way to enjoy his writing. This gripping thriller will be equally loved by committed Rebus fans and brand-new readers discovering Ian for the first time in this novel format.”

Mouncif Faqir, director of Amazon Books, Europe, added: “We like to think of Amazon Original Stories as a playground for established authors and are thrilled to be working with Ian on this title – The Citadel manages to be both classic Rankin and something completely new and exciting.”